Former Turkish FM calls for global unity in addressing peace challenges at XII Global Baku Forum

Ensuring lasting global peace requires cooperation and collective efforts, especially in regions still grappling with unresolved conflicts, according to former Turkish Foreign Minister Hikmet Çetin.

Speaking at the XII Global Baku Forum, he highlighted the ongoing challenges to achieving sustainable peace, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

"Sustainable peace has yet to be achieved in many parts of the world, even between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Collective efforts and cooperation are needed for world peace," Çetin stated, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach to conflict resolution.

He also underscored Türkiye’s critical role in regional stability, particularly in light of shifting global dynamics. "The problems between the US and Europe once again vividly demonstrate Türkiye’s importance in regional issues. In the current period, impartiality in participating in the processes is very important. If we look at the Russia-Ukraine war, Türkiye has normal relations with both sides and is also ready to take steps to end the war. Türkiye can help establish peace in the region," he noted.

Meanwhile, former Latvian Defense Minister Artis Pabriks called for a just world order that considers the interests of smaller and developing nations.

"It is necessary to achieve a just and sustainable world, as superpowers, despite their power, do not have absolute power," Pabriks said during a panel discussion at the forum. He pointed out that small states are willing to form alliances in pursuit of fairness on the global stage.

"The change in the political landscape that will inevitably follow the crisis must be based on the rule of law and a world in which the big powers respect the small ones," he added.

The ongoing XII Global Baku Forum, held under the theme “Rethinking World Order: Turning Challenges into Opportunities,” is taking place at the Gulustan Palace in Baku, Azerbaijan. Organized under the patronage of President Ilham Aliyev, the forum will run until March 15, attracting over 400 distinguished participants, including current and former heads of state, Nobel Peace Prize laureates, and prominent figures from international organizations and civil society.

In his opening address, President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the forum’s significance as a platform for fostering global dialogue, cooperation, and innovation. Since its inception, the Global Baku Forum has evolved into a major international event, bringing together over 100 heads of state and government and more than 4,000 senior leaders to discuss pressing global challenges and explore innovative solutions.

Through its discussions and initiatives, the forum continues to serve as a key venue for shaping policies and strategies aimed at building a more stable, peaceful, and prosperous world.

By Tamilla Hasanova